Angus MacDonald MP Meets with Energy Officer
On September 30, 2025, Angus MacDonald, MP for Inverness, Skye, and West Ross-shire, engaged in a productive dialogue with Simon Spare, Community Energy Officer for Gairloch and Loch Ewe Action Forum (GALE).
GALE is one of six community partners within the Highland Energy Community Partnership (HECP). This partnership, coordinated by Changeworks and supported by funding from the National Lottery Community Fund’s Climate Action Fund, is dedicated to empowering Highland communities to adopt energy-efficient practices and combat climate change.
The discussions between Angus and Simon were timely, focusing on critical issues affecting energy efficiency in the Highlands. One of the primary concerns raised was the lack of Smart meter connectivity in the region. This connectivity issue has significant implications, particularly for electric vehicle owners who are unable to access the best available tariffs due to these technical shortcomings. As the transition to electric vehicles becomes increasingly important in reducing carbon emissions, addressing Smart meter connectivity is essential for enabling residents to fully benefit from their investments in sustainable transport.
Additionally, the meeting highlighted the pressing shortage of insulation installers in the Highlands. Effective insulation is a crucial first step in reducing energy consumption, and without adequate insulation, the installation of heat pumps (an important tool in the fight against climate change) cannot be effectively implemented. This bottleneck poses a challenge to homeowners looking to improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint.
Angus expressed his commitment to advocating for these issues at the Scottish Parliament, emphasising the need for systemic changes to support communities in their efforts to tackle energy challenges. By making representations to his colleagues, he aims to bring attention to the barriers faced by residents and the urgent need for solutions that promote energy efficiency
The HECP, through its innovative approach and community partnerships, is working to equip Highland communities with the knowledge and tools necessary to embrace energy efficiency. Simon Spare’s role in facilitating these initiatives is pivotal, as he helps bridge the gap between community needs and available resources.
As the conversation between Angus and Simon came to a close, there was a shared sense of determination to address these challenges head-on. The collaboration between local representatives and community organisations like HECP is vital for fostering sustainable practices and ensuring that residents can access the benefits of modern energy solutions.
Contact Your Local Energy Officer
Contact your local energy officer, Simon, to start the conversation regarding your home energy requirements.
